Italian Shells
Creamy Italian shells baked with seasoned meat, tomato sauce, and melted cheeses, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomato sauce, tomato paste, hamburger, oregano, garlic salt, parsley, onion, water, salt, and pepper in a pan and simmer.
- Cook a box of shell macaroni according to package directions, then drain.
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the tomato mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with grated American cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme in addition to the oregano. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute ground turkey for the lean hamburger. You can also use whole wheat shell macaroni for added nutrition. Don't hesitate to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Shells dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a larger spread, consider serving it alongside Aunt Vicky's Lasagna or a vegetable medley. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving adds a nice color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Shells contains roughly 569 calories, with 28g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (147% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and potassium (70% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1147mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for the cheeses?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute mozzarella for the American cheese for a stretchier texture, or use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Vegan cheese options are also available if you want a dairy-free version.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).